Message Encapsulation for Deterministic Traffic Stream Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for processing deterministic traffic streams are not applicable when traversing network address translators (NAT) or NAT protocol translators, as the mapping relation is not fixed, leading to invalid tracking of traffic streams.
Innovation Solution
A message encapsulation method that includes inserting stream attribute information, such as maximum frame length and cycle interval, into a traffic stream, allowing for dynamic mapping and tracking even through NAT or NATPT, using encapsulation formats like the first, second, third, or fourth encapsulation formats to ensure deterministic traffic stream processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed mapping relation is used for tracking deterministic traffic streams, then the processing is simple and straightforward, but it becomes invalid when traversing NAT or NATPT where IP addresses and port numbers change dynamically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed mapping relation into a dynamic mapping mechanism. Instead of relying on predetermined IP address and port number mappings, the system dynamically determines mapping relations based on stream attribute information (such as stream ID, protocol type, packet length, time interval) that is embedded in the traffic stream itself. This dynamic approach allows the mapping to adapt when traversing NAT or NATPT devices that modify IP addresses and port numbers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces stream attribute information as an intermediary element that carries identification and characteristic data of the traffic stream through the network. This intermediary contains essential stream characteristics that enable intermediate nodes and receiving ends to track and identify the original traffic stream even after IP address and port number changes caused by NAT or NATPT traversal.
2Adaptability or versatility
If stream attribute information is inserted into the traffic stream for dynamic mapping, then adaptability to NAT/NATPT is improved, but the message structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges stream attribute information with existing message structures by integrating it into encapsulation formats such as UDP headers or IP headers. Rather than creating entirely separate tracking mechanisms, the stream attributes are combined with standard network protocol headers, allowing the additional information to be carried within existing message structures used for deterministic traffic stream transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the stream attribute information structure to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides stream identification for tracking, carries protocol type information for proper handling, includes timing information for deterministic delivery, and enables mapping relation determination. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate specialized structures for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A message encapsulation method and apparatus, and a message decapsulation method and apparatus are provided. The message encapsulation method includes encapsulating a first message according to a preset encapsulation format to obtain a second message, where the first message is obtained by encapsulating a traffic stream, the second message carries stream attribute information, and the stream attribute information is used for indicating a feature attribute of the traffic stream.